Linux and Ham Radio - A Shotgun wedding

This is my response to an email I received recently asking for my opinion regarding a comparison between the Icom ID-51a and the Kenwood TH-D74a. Hi Aaron, That really depends on what modes you are interested in. I came in via the D-Star route. i.e. Reading up on D-Star, Getting an Icom 880H and still "not getting it". It wasn't until I purchased a DHAP and then an Icom ID-51A that the light bulbs started turning on. FYI: Nobody tells you this BUT! the "To:: line in DR mode are for commands sent to the repeater or hotspot. This line tells your Repeater or Hotspot what to do. Once that lightbulb finally came on, D-Star really started to become "FUN"! D-Star really peaks my curiosity due to the Raspberry Pi, DVMega, and the ID-51A.  I've been dong Linux for about 15 years, so finding another way of using Linux with ham radio really hits that sweet spot for me.  YMMV!!! Having said all that, I am less than impressed with the Kenwood TH

This is a work in progress to answer a question from my brother: "What should my first radio be?"   Disclaimer: This in no way should be construed as a full and complete listing of everything one might want to do using Amateur Radio. It is a known limitation that only the things that 'occurred to me' have been included. Things you might want to do after you get your ham license. Who do you want to talk to? People in your neighborhood:  FM VHF/UHF 1 to 5-watt Handie Talkie. Can work Countywide with access to a good repeater. People in your county or adjacent counties:  FM VHF/UHF 10-watt to 50-watt mobile rig (can be used as a base station) People in your state:  SSB HF 100 watt base station People in your country or other countries:  SSB HF 100 watt base station with 1500 watts (max) amplifier.  Can add a tower and beam for more focused ERP in a specific direction if desired.  People in view of the moon?  SSB VHF/UHF 50 to 1500 watts using very